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“Hot Jobs” Protect the Environment
by Kris R. Cash,
APR
Most people like to
say they are concerned about the environment and a prospering planet.
You know, a place where our water is safe, clean and affordable, a
planet where people are responsible and not polluting our streams,
rivers and oceans.
But how many people
are actually protecting the planet through their work? If you happen to
have a career as a water or wastewater specialist than you are one of
the few that can claim you are a true environmentalist.
As our Earth’s
resources become scarcer, greater and greater focus will fall on
protecting what we already have, and no one can live without water.
Thus, it is no
surprise that water industry careers are some of the most promising “hot
jobs,” according the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
CareerBuilder.com says, “Competitive wages and predicted industry
growth mean the future is looking bright for numerous blue collar
positions.”
For example, Waste
and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators are in hot demand.
This hands-on, technical job, which pays around $34,960 per year, is
projected to have an employment boom of 9-17 percent by 2014* By the
time you add benefits you are looking at a average salary of $47,000+
according to Salary.com
It takes a dedicated
person to pursue such a career. They can expect:
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Working outside
in all conditions
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Technical
experience in computers and machinery
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Accuracy in
recording water and wastewater test data
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Self-motivated
with a creative mind
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Ability to work
with others to solve problems
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High School
Diploma or equivalent (possible certification and apprenticeship
required)
The National Rural
Water Association and its’ State Affiliates are committed to protecting
the environment. State Rural Water Associations provide up-to-date
industry training. They help water systems stay on top of the
complicated federal and state regulations affecting the industry.
Additionally, Rural Water Associations offer certification programs for
both Water and Wastewater Specialist designed to help them become
experts in their respective fields.
For more information
about a career that protects the environment including America’s water
supply contact your local water system or State Rural Water
Association. You can find a listing of National Rural Water
Association’s State Affiliates at
www.nrwa.org .
*Bureau of Labor
Statistics
For national job
postings checkout - NRWA WaterPro Job Network
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